Heidegger on Science and Technology: A Contemporary Critique

Contents: In loving memory of Professor George F. McLean Preface Part I: Heidegger’s Understanding of Science and Technology Chapter One: Heidegger’s Interest in Science and Technology Chapter Two: The Picture of the Modern World Chapter Three: Science as the Theory of the Real Chapter Four: How are Science and Mathematics Related to Metaphysics? Chapter Five: “God is Dead” and Technology Chapter Six: What is Technology? Chapter Seven: Dwelling, Thinking and Technology Chapter Eight: Reflection on Heidegger and Technology Part II: Dealing with Technology, Inspired by Heidegger Chapter Nine: Western Technology and the Rediscovery of Indigenous Wisdom Chapter Ten: A New Definition of Philosophy as Love of Being Chapter Eleven: The Imperative of a Nonviolent Approach to Being. The purpose of writing this book is twofold: one, to engage in a critical exposition of Heidegger’s views on science and especially his thoughts on technology in the current context of the threat to humans and the environment posed by technology; two, to go beyond Heidegger by suggesting certain steps to counter technology. Heidegger’s way of meditative thinking could help us retain our sanity. His approach to technology is metaphysical. The author argues that the metaphysical approach is good but insufficient. We need a moral approach to technology as well. We may not be able to handle technology without a nonviolent attitude towards being. Violence combined with technology will most likely obliterate all life, including ours, from the planet. So the book will help the readers to understand what constitutes a nonviolent approach to being.…